While many things have changed through the years in how we take care of our bodies after giving birth, the one thing that's remained the same is the art of belly binding.
Postpartum doula, and owner of Bellibind, Princess McKinney-Kirk has made headlines for her expertise in caring for new moms after birth. Specifically focusing on the art of belly binding. She's worked with celebrity moms such as Chrissy Teigen and Ashley Simpson. And has most recently been honored by Beyoncé's foundation, BeyGOOD as a game changer for maternal wellness.
We sat down with Princess to discuss the importance of belly binding during postpartum care, and how her latest book release is serving as an after-birth guide to new moms. Here's what she had to say...
What Do New Moms Need to Know About Belly Binding?
Expecting moms need to know that belly binding is a tool that will aid in not only the physical rebound of their body after birth but also a key ancestral practice that helps ritualize the recovery experience and places emphasis on the self-tending that is so essential for optimal healing those first 40 days postpartum.
What is the history of belly binding?
Cross-culturally, belly binding has been used for centuries to aid in supporting the woman's body after childbirth. There are many different techniques used around the world and yet the main goal remains the same. To envelop the womb space in a cocoon of warmth reminiscent of a loved one's gentle embrace.
How is belly binding beneficial to postpartum mothers?
The benefits of belly binding for the postpartum mother are robust. From posture support to reduced bleeding time after birth are just a couple of key benefits most clients love to hear. Increased hip stability, rapid reduction of abdominal swelling, and ultra comfortable core and lower back support are all reasons why moms are choosing to be swaddled in a Bellibind wrap.
How long should the wrap be worn?
Our Bellibind clients are encouraged to wear their belly wraps for 13hrs and up to 36+ hours. This maximizes the benefits and a lot of the time moms prefer longer because of how comfortable it is. Ultimately, our team of wrap and recovery specialists always place emphasis on wearing the wrap for however long feels comfortable and taking time to shower in between wrap applications.
Can mothers who've had C-sections belly bind?
Evidence-based research tells us it is safe and enhances recovery after surgical births. The benefits for C-section moms start as early as 3-7 days after delivery, by helping gently compress the wound area reducing the internal pressure and pain caused by coughing, sneezing, and even laughing. The hospitals will typically send their C-section patients home with a velcro-style binder for this reason but we know nothing beats or fits better than a custom-tailored belly wrap like our Bellibind wraps are.
What should C-section moms be cautious of?
Be cautious of overdoing it post-surgical birth. This applies to both surgical and vaginal birth mamas. Specifically for surgical birth moms the pain meds are strong and can trick you into believing activity is manageable. However, simply going up and down a flight of stairs twice in less than a 4hr period can be too much on the healing body, leading to serious issues.
Incisional site reopening can occur when the mom's activity level strains the wound area. Additionally, flaps of skin hanging over the incisional area may lead to moisture pockets, so watching out for signs of incision infection is important.
Aside from belly binding, what else should postpartum mothers focus on during their recovery?
I love to encourage postpartum mothers to put an emphasis on self-tending activities like they likely did while pregnant. Don't go from pregnant Princess to postpartum peasant. Step into your queendom and cater to your needs because you matter, you bring life and are worthy of care. Focusing on renewal activities that will contribute to your overall joy and well-being is so valuable.
Why is changing postpartum maternal wellness important to you?
There has been a huge void in specialty, quality postpartum care in this country. It's one of the leading reasons why the USA is ranked 75th in the developed world for maternal mortality. I'm passionate about radically enhancing postpartum maternal wellness care. Because moms are amazing life-givers deserving of care that supports a long life. When moms are nurtured and supported they have better health outcomes. They're happier, and more equipped to care for and love their babies.
What can we expect from Bellibind in the future?
There are some very exciting things on the forefront from Bellibind. We are always innovating and finding new ways to make this specialized support more accessible. I want to establish key partnerships that will further our efforts to elevate the newborn mother's healing journey. Bellibind has a simple product line currently, but we plan to expand with unique items we know our moms will love.
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